How to remove Stains from wool clothes

Sometimes the unfortunate happens, and you spill something on your favourite item of wool clothing. Most stains can be treated, and we have some helpful hints on removing stains from wool. If you decide to treat the stain yourself, the following provides some guidance. All safety precautions recommended by chemical suppliers should be followed.

When treating stains, it is important to ensure they are fully removed before ironing. The heat from ironing can make a stain permanent.

Alcoholic drinksDab gently with an absorbent, lint-free cloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible. Sponge the area sparingly with a mixture of warm water and surgical spirit or rubbing alcohol in equal parts.

Black coffeeMix alcohol and white vinegar in equal parts, soak a lint-free cloth in the solution and lightly dab the stained area before pressing gently with an absorbent cloth.

BloodRemove excess blood immediately with a damp sponge, then gently dab the area using undiluted white vinegar followed by cold water.

Butter, grease or saucesIf a greasy mark forms, firstly scrape the surface of the stain with a spoon or knife to remove any excess oil. Then soak a lint-free cloth in proprietary grease remover or white spirit and gently dab the area.

Chocolate, white coffee or teaDab gently around the edge of the stain with a cloth soaked in white spirit before following instructions for black coffee.

Egg or milkDab gently with a lint-free cloth soaked in white spirit. Repeat the action with a cloth soaked in diluted white vinegar.

Fruit, fruit juice or red wineImmediately dab the stain with a mixture of surgical spirit or rubbing alcohol and water (3:1 ratio).

GrassApply soap very carefully (using a mild tablet soap or flakes) or dab gently with a lint free cloth soaked in surgical spirit or rubbing alcohol.

Ink or ballpoint penDab gently with a lint-free cloth soaked in white spirit. Repeat the action with a cloth soaked in diluted white vinegar or surgical spirit or rubbing alcohol.

The Woolmark Company has released a Wool Care Guide app, placing information on apparel care at the tip of your fingers. Available for all Apple and android devices, the Wool Care Guide app can be downloaded free-of-charge via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.